Sunday, December 26, 2010

Lesbian-Themed Car TV Ad Banned in Italy

This car TV ad depicting what appears to be two lesbians meeting at a party has been banned in Italy. Italian TV chiefs are refusing to broadcast the 30-second advertisement made by Publicis for the new Renault Twingo, The Daily Mail reports. But perhaps even more surprisingly, some Italian gay groups have slammed the advertisement, saying it is offensive to lesbians.

Publicis spokesperson Daniele Tranchini said the commercial was meant to be enjoyable but not vulgar: "We wanted to create an advert that was original, enjoyable and at the same time not vulgar and I believe we have achieved that," she said.

I have to agree with her–I can't find anything offensive about it, and it certainly does a nice job of breaking through a cluttered category by captivating viewers attention through an engaging story. I wish US car advertising was this good.